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In response to COVID-19, the Michigan House Republicans are taking measures to guarantee the government's accountability.

According to the Michigan House Republicans website, the Joint Select Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic includes 10 members from the House and Senate.

These 10 individuals will strive to serve the 10 million residents who are represented by the Michigan Legislature. The members will also be working with the oversight activities that Rep. Shane Hernandez (R-Port Huron) has organized.

While Hernandez is pleased to learn that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is allowing some Michigan retailers to return to their jobs, there is still a good deal of work to be done. 

“That is not an acceptable way to govern because it does not include input from representatives of the people,” Hernandez said. “That is exactly why we’re creating this select committee to oversee the state’s COVID-19 response. The people need a voice in their state government more than ever during an emergency such as COVID-19, and the Legislature’s role is to provide that voice.”

Hernandez is seeking to partner with the governor and help deliver decisions that are in the best interest of the residents of Michigan.

The governor has cancelled a contract that was originally signed with a partisan software seller, which was advertised as a way to manage the state’s coronavirus contact tracing data.

Hernandez serves as the chair of the House Appropriations Committee, and he said that the new committee will be a great way for the Legislature to make decisions for what the future holds. 

“I am confident the Legislature’s oversight of COVID-19 response will help protect public health, help safely reopen Michigan and help get struggling families get back on their feet,” Hernandez said. “I am confident our involvement will provide accountability and answers for taxpayers.”

Hernandez is hard at work trying to get answers for employees who are being forced to stay home but still need to provide for their families.